Parents need to know that this TV classic's messages about social responsibility, respect, and self-esteem are just as relevant today as they were at the show's start in the 1960s. The series uses music, make believe, and everyday tasks to illustrate kid-friendly themes like honesty, overcoming fears, and being a good friend. Field trips expose viewers to how common products are made, and the host's visits with his neighbors demonstrate how their jobs benefit the community. Occasionally the show explores sensitive subjects like divorce or the loss of a loved one, but it's always done in a responsible manner that's appropriate for kids.